In a recent interview with Allure, Shakira expressed her disappointment with the lack of “Kenergy” in the 2023 blockbuster “Barbie.” The Colombian pop singer shared that her sons, Milan and Sasha, felt that the movie was emasculating and did not adequately portray women in a powerful light. Shakira emphasized that she believes in empowering women without diminishing the roles of men in society, stating that men and women complement each other and that balance should not be lost.
Despite the immense success of “Barbie,” which received critical acclaim and earned over $1 billion at the box office worldwide, there were some dissenting voices. Director Oliver Stone criticized actor Ryan Gosling, who starred in the film, for not focusing on more serious projects. Stone initially called out Gosling for participating in the “infantilization of Hollywood” through films like “Barbie,” but later apologized for speaking ignorantly after viewing the movie and appreciating its originality and themes.
Shakira’s comments on “Barbie” sparked a conversation about gender roles and empowerment in popular culture. She expressed her desire for women to have all the tools and trust to succeed without losing their femininity, while still respecting the roles and purposes of men in society. The singer believes that women can do it all without diminishing men’s abilities to protect and provide, arguing that both genders should share the load appropriately.
The discussion around “Barbie” highlights the ongoing debate about gender representation in media and the impact of movies on societal perceptions. Critics like Oliver Stone have raised concerns about the prevalence of fantasy films in Hollywood, suggesting that actors like Ryan Gosling should focus on more serious projects. However, Stone’s initial criticism of “Barbie” was retracted after he watched the film and appreciated its originality and themes, emphasizing the importance of approaching movies with an open mind.
Ultimately, Shakira’s comments on “Barbie” reflect her desire to see more empowering representations of women in popular culture. While the movie was a commercial success, the singer felt that it missed the mark in portraying women in a powerful light without diminishing the roles of men. The conversation around the film highlights the complexities of gender dynamics in media and the importance of balanced representations that celebrate the strengths of both men and women. As discussions around gender roles and empowerment continue to evolve, it is essential for filmmakers and actors to consider the impact of their work on shaping societal perceptions and values.
